Open Space Plan

There will be multiple phases to the Open Space Plan development and implementation process:

• Phase I – Douglas County is currently working to study existing data and policies, build relationships with key stakeholders, increase outreach efforts, and identify community values and shared vision related to open space. 
• Phase II – After Phase I is complete, Douglas County will work to identify actions the community can take to fulfill its values and vision. This could include designating target conservation areas, policy changes, changes in organizational structure, and identifying ongoing funding for implementation.
• Phase III – Upon completion of Phase II, Douglas County will implement the plan.

The county is experiencing multiple pressures directly affecting the landscape of the community. These pressures include:

• destruction of important natural and historic features, including 99% of original prairie and 88% of original forest due to land use changes, development, and transportation infrastructure;
• more intense and frequent extreme weather events connected to climate change, such as storms, droughts, and floods; and
• agricultural economic pressures of a changing climate, volatile commodity crop prices, and aging farmers without succession plans.

If you have questions or would like to learn more about the Open Space Plan, please email us at openspace@douglascountyks.org.  

“Many agencies and organizations have been working on these issues for years, but there is not a comprehensive strategy to address these pressures. The creation of an Open Space Plan will be a game-changer for our community. I believe it will expand options for both public and private land owners, which will lead to flood damage control, maintaining rural character, enhancing overall ecological integrity, preservation of history, and ultimately, higher quality of life.” — Sustainability Director Jasmin Moore